independent and original talent; always loved and promoted
mediocrity."

As he finished this pregnant and delightful aphorism, GORST looked up
at the Peers' Gallery, where sat his Chief, GRAND CROSS, successor of
CLIVE in the Government of India. His glance travelled downward, till
it rested on the Treasury Bench, and fell gently on the figure of OLD
MORALITY.

How DIZZY would have delighted in this speech, with this last
exquisite touch! The SQUIRE of MALWOOD, in his secret breast, not less
appreciative; but debate must be kept up, and he joined in the hue
and cry with which Mediocrity resented this fresh and original way
of treating things. Even CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN shook his head. "It is
brilliant," he said, "but it is not discretion."

_Business done._--A good deal.

_Thursday._--Government met with awkward defeat on Factories Bill.
Not quite certain to whom they chiefly owe it, whether to GORST or
MATTHEWS. Question arose on SYDNEY BUXTON's Amendment, raising the
age of child-labourers to a minimum of eleven years. Debate lasted all
night; a pleasant contrast to the unreality of Irish Debate; Benches
crowded; audience interested; speeches practical; GORST in attendance,
though doubtful whether he would speak. Usually sits in modest
retirement under shadow of SPEAKER's Chair. To-night marked slight
difference of opinion from his colleagues by taking up corner-seat on
Treasury Bench by Gangway, quite out of reach of hand-shake from HOME
SECRETARY.